It is a splendid irony that both Johnson and Larry Bird wore No. 33 in college—the precise number worn by Jabbar, one of the NBA’s brightest stars. Both the Lakers and Celtics have good reason to feel that these two newcomers will match Jabbar’s number in more ways than one.
Tag Archives: 1980s NBA
Introducing Bill Walton, the 1980 Version
Ever since he signed with the San Diego Clippers last spring—on Mother’s Day—in a three-piece suit—he has been the object of squinting scrutiny.
Moses Matures, 1980
Today, the peach fuzz has given way to a full goatee and mustache. The body is filled out, and the 18-year-old kid is no longer a man-child. Today, he’s a 24-year-old man. He is mature, thoughtful, and at times witty.
Kiki Vandeweghe: More Than Just a Scoring Machine, 1986
Basketball remains the focus for Vandeweghe’s future. His new contract will carry him to age 34, and if he still wants to play at that time, the Blazers are sure to grant an extension.
The Amazing Marques Johnson, 1979
Johnson’s attitude hasn’t changed. He signs autographs endlessly. No matter how many people surround him, he is patient, always smiling, always chatting.
Marques Johnson: His Father the Influencer, 1977
Marques Johnson was not alone on that backyard court. Jeff Johnson was there, too, playing him one-on-one, challenging, teaching, and competing. Almost every day, for six or seven years.
Everything You Wanted to Know about Muggsy Bogues—But Weren’t Afraid to Ask, 1987
Bogues, 22, is a human assist machine, a whirling magician who appears from out of nowhere to slap the ball away from towering opponents, push it upcourt, fake a drive to his left, and then flick a bounce pass to a teammate on the right for an easy layup.
From Way Downtown 